Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch had a great day out at Armadale Castle on Saturday 25th May at the Fun Dog event with the Skye Terriers Club, helping to raise awareness of the vulnerable breed.

Dave said: “Given this is the first, hopefully of many, fun dog meets it is remarkable that twenty-four Skye Terriers were present, along with of course other dog breeds.

“The permanent installation of the Greyfriars Bobby plastercast in the museum  and the homecoming statue of two Skye Terriers in the grounds will all help to raise awareness of the need to support this vulnerable breed.

“The plan is to hold this fun dog event annually and I will do everything I can to help the club strengthen this annual commitment and grow the event.”

Cathie Macleod, the club Secretary said:

”The weather was warm and sunny which helped to encourage people to turn out for the event. Twenty four Skye Terriers and many local dogs took part in different fun classes and some took part in the agility as well.

“The event was to raise awareness of the Skye Terrier as a breed and to fund raise for the placing of The Homecoming Statue of two Skye Terriers on the island. On the day the 140 year old plaster statue of Greyfriars Bobby, which was donated to the club, was on display and will be permanently placed in the Museum of the Isles at Clan Donald Skye for all to enjoy.”

Dave also raised a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating the club on its endeavours.

Notes

Motion Number: S4M-06570

Lodged By: Dave Thompson

Date Lodged: 14/05/2013

Title: Skye Terrier Club

Motion Text:

That the Parliament wishes the Skye Terrier Club success in its upcoming fundraising walk between 21 and 24 May 2013; understands that the club will walk 42 miles between Armadale Castle and Portree to raise funds for a statue of two Skye Terriers at Armadale Castle; notes that the Skye Terrier is a famous Scottish breed, of which the famous Greyfriars Bobby was a notable example; understands that the breed is regrettably top of the vulnerable breeds list with only around 3,000 in the world and 30 to 40 puppies registered each year; hopes that the Skye Terrier Club is successful in its fundraising walk and other planned activities, and further hopes that the iconic Skye Terrier will remain resilient and continue for many, many years.